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Re: Gathas

Re: Gathas

Hi,

We will be reciting various Gatha during our upcoming 2-day Ango/Jukai/Rohatsu Retreat ... for going to the bathroom, brushing teeth, meals ... and I will have a talk up about that on the sit-a-long before the retreat.

I think that they speak for themselves, and help us realize that our every little daily action is sacred in its way, is the basis for our life, and has effects.

Re: Gathas

I think other types of practice actually use Gatha's during meditation as an object of mind. I assume that is not what is being recommended in this thread, correct?

Thanks,

Craig

Correct!

We do no think of Gatha when sitting Zazen.

On the other hand, rising from the cushion (or before we sit), we may bring "Zazen mind" into reciting a Gatha ... a feeling of non-gaining wholeness in the recitation, and in the act described in the recitation (that when we brush our teeth it is all of time and space brushing, and there is not another thing that one had better be doing in that moment)!

Re: Gathas

Here is one that I chant at work sometimes, especially when I'm feeling frustrated or catch myself starting to have a pity-party. It helps center me and remind myself that I am one of the lucky, miniscule few who are gainfully employed in this world:

Master Baizhang imparts, "A day without work is a day without food"
It is through this work that I sustain myself, my family, and all living beings
It is through this work that I convey the Boddhisattva Vows
I dedicate today's work to all those who have taught me
And all those who I may teach in turn
With great admiration and gratitude
All Buddhas throughout space and time

Re: Gathas

Phew: two meetings today that could have degenerated into painful, messy conflicts. Instead of plunging into the abyss of everything that's bad about our racist, classist society, we managed to just talk. Got me thinking about another gatha:

When conflict appears imminent and inevitable
I vow with all beings
To sit, be still, and listen,
Because we're all near the edge of the roof.

Re: Gathas

As I bite down on each morsel to feel the food break and crumble as it mingles with the juices;
I think of its taste and aroma and, how I am preparing this medicine to nourish my body.
I think of every sentient being that contributed to allowing me to perform this operation;
How I contribute in return to this mystical union.
And I am thankful.